I’m in New York for a few days, thanks to an incredible opportunity to represent my company at Advertising Week. It’s been a whirlwind visit, from attending nearly 20 sessions to seeing family and longtime friends during “downtime.” There also happens to be a very important game tonight for my beloved Yankees.

Among the many insights, pull quotes and takeaways from this week, one particular lesson keeps replaying in my head. It comes from none other than the Fresh Prince himself, Will Smith.

Smith has been a household name for decades but only recently has had the chance to create content purely for himself. The man is an icon for many reasons, but the essence of his spirit is captured for millions of viewers in a fun, thought-provoking YouTube channel.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and I’m spending it in New York with some of my very favorite people. So far, we’ve managed to clock in more than 11 miles of walking, the Museum of Mathematics, countless tasty treats, and — tonight — we’ll add The Rockettes to the list.

I couldn’t be happier to spend this time with my mom, aunt, uncle and cousins. We don’t see each other often, and when we do, it’s not a collective vacation. I feel incredibly blessed to be here with them, and I hope time slows down juuust a little bit during the rest of our trip.

A more reflective year-end post is coming, but I’m just enjoying living in these moments for now. Cheers, y’all!

I’m back in the SF Bay Area, despite Snowstorm Jonas’s best attempts to keep me grounded in Florida. And this week, I can’t seem to focus on much else besides a friend’s heartbreaking story to bring home her adopted brother.

Please, take a few minutes to read about the plight to #BringDuaneHome. Share it with your networks, say a prayer, reach out to local news or national hosts — anything you think could help to heal their pain.

I know this is one of countless cases where our government agencies fail, and I know it won’t be the last. But whatever can be done to bring justice to Duane and Deirdre’s family is one small step toward the society these children deserve.

I flew about 3,000 miles since last week’s post and boy, are my arms tired. [Insert bad-joke rimshot noise here.] I’ll spare you any more corny jokes and get right to it:

NYC: It’s a great time of year to be back in one of the most electrifying cities on Earth. The air and leaves are crisp, the people are crazy as ever, the Mets are hanging in there, and I feel very #blessed to spend a week in the city.

Macy’s Herald Square: A big change with this visit is that my NYC team recently moved down the street to work in offices at Herald Square. It’s completely insane walking these hallowed halls and being right in the action — but I so appreciate the chance to “be a part of it.” 😉

Halloween: Um, duh. This year, I have a friend’s wedding to attend and will then continue the celebration at my friends’ party. The costume isn’t as surprising as you might expect, but it’s still sure to be a winner. La la la la la.

“Hello” – Adele: OK, so everyone and their mother — litchrlly — is obsessed with this new release from the queen of soulful singing. If this is what three years of anticipation brings us, I’d have to say it’s worth the wait. And the video? Damn, girl.

The week ahead will be nothing short of exciting: I go back to Florida on Friday to celebrate my cousin’s engagement and, later, my 10-year high school reunion. Crazy to think how fast time flies — but I couldn’t be more excited to see family and longtime friends. Till then, here’s what’s really got me going 😉

Plank: This Oakland hotspot is basically an adult version of Chuck E. Cheese, which was perfect for my company’s summer outing last week. We played arcade games and life-size Jenga, enjoyed tasty tacos and drinks, and even had a flipbook photo booth!

“Minions”: Some friends who love these little yellow guys coordinated movie night for us, and I have to admit, it was an adorable affair. I still don’t quite believe Sandra Bullock as a villain, but stranger things have happened. I highly recommend going to a 21+ showing to avoid the kiddo crowd.

Ladies & Gentlemen, the Bronx Is Burning: This detailed account of New York City life in 1977 was high on my to-read list, and I finally dedicated enough time to get through it. From the iconic Reggie Jackson to the historic Koch v. Cuomo campaign, the book is brimming with fascinating facts and figures.

“You Really Got Me” – The Kinks: Since “Minions” was set in the ‘60s, it’s only fitting that the soundtrack be full of revived rock ‘n roll. One of my personal faves, forever and always, is this sticky-sweet jam. Rock on \m/

So I’m back in NYC this week — for work, but more importantly — to celebrate my work wifey’s wedding! It could be the copious coffee, this electrifying city or a combination of both, but here’s what I’m feeling:

Earth Day: I know y’all were thinking green on 4/20 but how about you go a step further and do something good for the environment today? Then, reward yourself with this adorable quiz from Google to determine your spirit animal.

Via: For all you lovelies who are tired of Uber surges in NYC, check out Via — you can go anywhere between 14th and 110th Street, Monday to Friday, 630 a.m. to 930 p.m. for a fraction of the price! Use my friend’s promo code justine4w6 for a $10 credit 🙂

Obao: It’s no secret that New York has some of the most delicious food in the country, but I experienced Obao last night and was just blown away. From phenomenal pho to incredible desserts and impeccable service, it’s no wonder this place is so popular.

“Up” – Olly Murs f. Demi Lovato: A co-worker got me hooked on this song, which is just brimming with positivity. I never considered myself a Demi Lovato fan, but the little lady has quite the pipes to support Olly’s smooth singing.

Welp, I know how Jeter must feel … this farewell tour has been exhausting.

But I’m so thankful for my supportive family and friends who’ve put up with me these last few weeks — I promise, the dragon lady will be extinct once I’m settled in San Fran!

Till then, let’s celebrate these four final New York obsessions:

MTA: Oh, how I love to hate you. But when it’s all said and done, I am honestly amazed that 9.5 million people are transported via the subway, buses, LIRR, and Metro-North. Keep on keepin on’, Old Faithful.

Times Square: See above re: love to hate. My NY experience would be nothing without the absolutely insane environment I face every workday. It’s magical to tourists for a reason, and I hope to enjoy visiting it in the future.

Allison Turns 1!: OK, so she doesn’t live in New York, but she was born a Yankees fan so that totally counts. My favorite niece has brought nothing but joy and wonder to our family, and I can’t wait to celebrate many more years of her being adorable.

DE-REK JE-TER: I searched the archives and have not specifically called out The Captain as an obsession. So there. His final home game is tomorrow, and his last at-bat will be in Boston Sunday. Regardless of wins and losses, I have nothing but love for my first-ever celebrity crush. Enjoy retirement, Jetes. You know where to find me.